Are you asking yourself: what are the best Disney World Deluxe Resorts for my trip?
It’s your favorite Disney travel agent here to help you with your research for your Disney vacation planning!
The Walt Disney Company is still celebrating 100 years of being in business which means you know the celebrations will extend to the parks.
Walt Disney World and Disneyland has announced the years long anticipated new Tiana ride and more!
With so many amazing things happening this year, one of the big questions is: “Where will I stay when I visit Walt Disney World?”
How are the Disney World Resorts Classified?
Here’s a brief overview is that Walt Disney World has 3 categories of hotels that fits any family’s budget and needs.
Deluxe and Deluxe Villas is the highest tier of hotels are the epitome of upscale comfort with Disney charm and influence.
Prices can start at $390 a night or as high as $900. However, you can always book with me to save on your experience!
THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS. PLEASE READ MY DISCLOSURE FOR MORE INFO. Which means if you click on certain links, I may receive a small commission at no additional charge to you.
Today, I am going over the best deluxe resort options at Walt Disney World based on the following:
- Theme
- Dining Options
- Accommodations
- Recreation
- Location
- Transportation
ORDER NOW to secure your Walt Disney World theme park ticket! GET MY TICKETS.
1. Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Starting us off, we will discuss Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, a Magic Kingdom Resort.
While this one is not terribly coveted due to the fact that it’s not on the Monorail Loop, that doesn’t make it any less beautiful or worthy of being one of the best.
However, Magic Kingdom is accessible by boat, which I recommend you use. For other parks you must use the busses or the Minnie Van Service.
Why we Recommend this Disney Deluxe Resort
Disney Wilderness Lodge thrives with its rustic splendor as it is themed as a celebration of the turn of the century national parks lodges that, at one point in time, must do destinations in the American great northwest.
The same architect, Peter Dominick Jr., who also worked on another deluxe resort on this list, crafted the gorgeous 8 story, split log lodge.
It boasts a woodsy, cavernous grand lobby, working geyser, waterfalls, a giant fireplace and so much more!
Food at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Wilderness Lodge features two awesome table service restaurants:
- Whispering Canyon: serves up American style food starting at $14.99
- Storybook Dining: a character dining experience at Artist Point
At Storybook Dining, you will be served several courses themed to Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Pricing starts at $65 for adults and $39 for kids.
Quick service options include Geyser Bar and Grill and Roaring Fork along with the Territory Lounge where you can grab a drink.
The accommodations range from a wide variety of rooms, suites, cabins and villas with some including club access. Making it one of the best Disney World Deluxe Resorts.
The Rooms at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Room types offered at this Disney Deluxe Resort are the following:
- Standard Rooms and Suites (sleep up to 4 adults)
- Deluxe Studios (sleep up to 5 adults)
- Rooms and Suites with Club-Level Service (sleep up to 6 adults)
- 2-Bedroom Cabins (sleep up tp 8 adults)
- 1-, 2- and 3-Bedroom Villas (sleep up to 12 adults)
Cabins and Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge features:
- A fully-equipped kitchen, so you can prepare meals and snacks from the comfort of your villa
- Spacious living and dining areas where your family can share even more quality time together after you return from the parks
- Separate bedrooms that offer space, privacy and tranquility – so it’s easy to rest, relax and recharge your spirit after each exhilarating vacation day
- A washer and dryer, so you can pack lightly and always have fresh, clean clothes
In addition, cabins feature a double-sided fireplace, a porch with a built-in hot tub and views of Bay Lake. Three-bedroom Grand Villas offer a private porch or balcony.
Deluxe Studios at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge features:
- A kitchenette, so you can prepare meals and snacks from the comfort of your studio
- A sleeper sofa, in addition to one queen bed and one pull-down bed (Deluxe Studios at Boulder Ridge Villas also have a pull-down bed)
How much does it cost to stay at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge?
Pricing starts at $409 a night depending on the room type, but you will find the nature and theme park views in particular extremely relaxing.
Amenities and Perks of Staying at this Disney Deluxe Resort
There is a wide variety of recreation which is awesome for those who enjoy the outdoors.
Plus, there’s:
- Fishing and boating excursions
- 2 well themed pools
- Jogging trails
- A health club
- Campfire activities with visits from characters
- The option to do a Backstage Magic 7-hour tour which includes lunch at Whispering Canyon.
Most of all, it is close to Fort Wilderness Campgrounds which has even more activities to enjoy such as carriage rides and horseback riding.
Book your discounted stay at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge TODAY!
2. Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
This next best Disney Deluxe Resort is actually on the Magic Kingdom Monorail Loop.
It has one of the best views of Magic Kingdom and its fireworks spectacular, especially if you get a theme park view room.
Why we Recommend this Disney Deluxe Resort
Disney’s Polynesian Resort celebrates the spirit of the south pacific with amazing islands ambiance.
You will be immersed in lush tropical plants and atmosphere, along with delicious exotic dining options.
This was always one of the first planned resorts that Walt wanted at Disney World. You can easily walk to Magic Kingdom or hop on the monorail there.
Plus you can also hop on the monorail with one stop to transfer to the EPCOT monorail station. Busses and Minnie Vans are available to get around.
How much does it cost to stay at Disney’s Polynesian Resort?
Pricing starts at $590 depending on the room type, but you will find the tropical theme and Magic Kingdom views incredible.
The Rooms at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Room types offered at this Disney Deluxe Resort are the following:
- Standard Rooms and Suites (sleep up to 5 adults)
- Rooms and Suites with Club-Level Service (sleep up to 5 adults)
- Deluxe Studios (sleep up to 5 adults)
- Bungalows (sleep up to 8 adults)
Bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort features:
- A fully-equipped kitchen, so you can prepare meals and snacks from the comfort of your villa
- Spacious living and dining areas where your family can share even more quality time together after you return from the parks
- Separate bedrooms that offer space, privacy and tranquility – so it’s easy to rest, relax and recharge your spirit after each exhilarating vacation day
- A washer and dryer, so you can pack lightly and always have fresh, clean clothes
- A private desk and plunge pool so you can unwind and rejuvenate
Deluxe Studios at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort features:
- A kitchenette, so you can prepare meals and snacks from the comfort of your studio
- A sleeper sofa, in addition to one queen bed and one pull-down bed
Food at Disney’s Polynesian Resort
When it comes to dining, you will be immersed in tropical specialties and culinary delights of the South Pacific that mixes with Asian and American classics, along with bomb cocktails at various lounges.
Here you will find four bars and lounges including the famous Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto.
You will indulge in awesome table service meals at O’hana and Kona Cafe where you can try the Tonga Toast.
Finally, take some food to go from Kona Island, Capt. Cook’s and Pineapple Lanai where you will try a Pineapple Dole Whip! Making it one of the best Disney World Deluxe Resorts.
Amenities and Perks of Staying at this Disney Deluxe Resort
When not in the parks, there is plenty to!
Fishing or boat rentals right on Seven Seas Lagoon, the renovated Lava and Oasis Pools are at your disposal, along with a sandy beach.
You can’t swim on the beach; however, there are jogging trails, volleyball courts and a spa just a monorail stop away at the Grand Floridian Resort next door.
Book your discounted stay at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort TODAY!
3. Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resort
Yacht Club Resort is adjoined with the Beach Club Resort but this one is the more preferable if you are a solo traveler.
Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts are EPCOT area resorts that is definitely a vibe of New England formal grace.
Why we Recommend this Disney Deluxe Resort
These lakeside hotels are nearby the Boardwalk which is great for dining, drinking and to see some entertainment.
The plush, salty sea air and nautical themes stretch beyond the lobby, sharing many recreational amenities with its sister resort
These resorts allow access to Disney Skyliner, boat service to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, busses to areas around the property and Minnie Van service if requested.
How much does it cost to stay at Disney Yacht Club Resort?
The accommodations vary and can be found here starting at $484 per night.
To add to it, you don’t need to keep your dog away from the Disney magic.
For an additional fee, you can bring your pup with you! Making it one of the best Disney World Deluxe Resorts.
Food at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resort
As mentioned before, you can easily enjoy everything at Yacht and Beach Club.
Enjoy table service at Yachtsman Steakhouse, Ale and Compass restaurant or a character Breakfast at Cape May Cafe.
Savor a sip at the Ale and Compass Lounge, Crew’s Cup Lounge, Hurricane Hana’s Bar and Grill or Martha’s Vineyard.
Or better yet, you can take on the Kitchen Sink challenge at Beaches and Cream Soda Shop!
Amenities and Perks of Staying at this Disney Deluxe Resort
Circling back to the recreation, you will enjoy one of the most well-themed and popular resort pools, Stormalong Bay.
The pool is known for its sandy bottom and refreshing pool amenities, like renting a cabana!
Nearby is the Fantasia Gardens and Fairways Miniature golf course that has 36 courses!
You can rent a boat to cruise around the Boardwalk Lake or play some Tennis, Volleyball or go fishing or jogging.
Book your discounted stay at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort TODAY!
4. Disney’s Boardwalk Inn
The themed of this Disney Deluxe resort is turn-of-the-century Atlantic City with unique decor reminiscent of the seaside towns of that time.
One of the main reasons we all love this destination is the fact that it’s right in the middle of the famous Boardwalk area.
Why we Recommend this Disney Deluxe Resort
This Disney resort hotel is surrounded by the majestic Crescent Lake. It’s also just a short walk to EPCOT.
And just like the Yacht and Beach Club Resorts, you can take a boat ride to Hollywood Studios or the Disney Skyliner ride to both EPCOT and Hollywood Studios.
Disney’s Boardwalk Inn truly makes you feel as if you’ve escaped the hustle and bustle of the the theme parks.
Plus, it puts you in the middle of everything! Perfect for an adult solo traveler and perfect for a date night in Orlando.
How much does it cost to stay at Disney’s Boardwalk Inn and Villas?
The accommodations vary and can be found here starting at $500 per night.
Amenities and Perks of Staying at this Disney Deluxe Resort
This resort puts you in the midst of the best carnival games and intoxicating nightlife reminding you of heydays of Coney Island.
You can even rent a surrey bike to tour the entire boardwalk on your Walt Disney World vacation!
Disney solo travelers will absolutely find this place to be one of the best Disney World Deluxe Resorts.
There’s also:
- Fishing
- Tennis
- 2 leisure pools with whirlpool spas
Food at Disney’s Boardwalk Inn
As far as dining options, well, with the boardwalk at your doorstep, you can have your pick!
There are far too many options to list here so be sure to check out the list on Disney’s website.
Book your discounted stay at Disney’s Boardwalk Inn Resort TODAY!
5. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
I had to save the best Disney Deluxe Resort, in my professional opinion, for last!
Animal Kingdom Lodge is hands down one of the most gorgeous Disney deluxe resorts on property and another creation of Peter Dominick Jr.
As you may have guessed, the resort is in the Animal Kingdom area and the furthest from any parks.
So, if you want to stay close to a specific park, this may not be the best option for you as the only way to get around is Bus or Minnie Van service from this resort.
Why we Recommend this Disney Deluxe Resort
Animal Kingdom Lodge is a credit to a wide variety of African cultures and tribes.
The resort gains its inspiration from an African Kraal, with its horseshoe design allowing full views of the 4 savannas where you will have a close view of the animals in your own backyard.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Resort is home to one of the largest collections of African art in the country and has award winning dining experiences.
Food at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
You can wet your whistle at several of the restaurants, bars and lounges around the resort or enjoy 3 of the best restaurants on property.
Jiko-The cooking place, Boma, an all you can eat buffet with a mix of American and African cuisine and Sanaa, known for its Bread service!
And you have to stop at The Mara quick service location to try a specialty treat, Zebra Domes.
How much does it cost to stay at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Resort?
Pricing starts at $436 depending on the room type, but you will find the African theme and savannah views to be amazing!
The Rooms at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Room types offered at this Disney Deluxe Resort are as follows:
- Standard Rooms and Suites (sleep up to 4 adults)
- Rooms and Suites with Club-Level Service (sleep up to 8 adults)
- The Deluxe Studios (sleep up to 4 adults)
- Deluxe Studios with Club-Level Service (sleep up to 4 adults)
- 1-, 2- and 3-Bedroom Villas (sleep up to 12 adults)
- Villas with Club-Level Service (sleeps up to 5 adults)
Villas at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge features:
- A fully-equipped kitchen, so you can prepare meals and snacks from the comfort of your villa
- Spacious living and dining areas where your family can share even more quality time together after you return from the parks
- Separate bedrooms that offer space, privacy and tranquility – so it’s easy to rest, relax and recharge your spirit after each exhilarating vacation day
- A washer and dryer, so you can pack lightly and always have fresh, clean clothes
Studios and Deluxe Studios at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge features:
- A kitchenette, so you can prepare meals and snacks from the comfort of your studio
- Sleeper sofa, in addition to one queen bed and one pull-down bed
- Deluxe Studios are larger than Studios.
Amenities and Perks of Staying at this Disney Deluxe Resort
Recreation isn’t a lot here as you can enjoy the pool and spa. But they make up for this with their tour experiences.
You can choose from a list of unique and unforgettable tours here like the Starlight Safari Tour.
The best part of the resort is the accommodations. Imagine waking up and throwing open the curtains to see giraffes, elephants and more!
Making it one of the best Disney World Deluxe Resorts.
Book your discounted stay at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge TODAY!
My Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Disney Deluxe Resorts
Even amongst this category, there is a wide range of offerings, accommodations, dining options and more that will best fit your needs.
Just make sure you are living life comfortably and elegantly during your stay.
Each option shared is well themed, well placed, and offers award winning service and stays.
Have you stayed at one of these resorts or considering doing so? Let us know which is one of the best Disney World Deluxe Resorts in the comments section below!
Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!
About the Author
Victoria is a professional solo traveler here to make your solo trips as stress free AND enjoyable as possible for you.
She has over 5 years of Disney and Non-Disney travel experience and was featured by POPSUGAR as one of the Top 50 Black Disney Creators you should follow.
She is a Proud Native to Baltimore, Md but always will call Disney World home. You can find her at Disney Tea with V.
(Original Article Date: March 6, 2023/Updated by Editor on April 2, 2024)